BT is a step closer to being given the task of supplying superfast broadband to 85% of Somerset households and businesses by 2015.

Somerset County Council announced the company as its preferred supplier for the £52m government-funded project. The deal is yet to be formally completed.

It is subject to due diligence but the deal is expected to be signed by Christmas. Two firms were asked to bid.

Superfast broadband is considered to be speeds in excess of 24Mbps.

The Connecting Devon and Somerset (CDS) programme aims to get superfast broadband for the whole county within eight years.

CDS was set up with government funding, from Broadband Delivery UK, to roll out superfast broadband to those areas that are not deemed "commercially viable" for investment in improved broadband by the private sector.

Earlier this year more than 15,000 people in Somerset responded to a survey designed to show support for superfast broadband.